Patient Access Associate PRN Nights-ED

About the Role

At Houston Methodist West Hospital, the Patient Access Associate is responsible for obtaining and entering accurate demographic and insurance information in the electronic health record (EHR) for patients at various entry points. This role performs cashiering functions, ensuring secure hospital accounts through collection of required co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance. The position also conducts medical necessity checks to ensure compliance with Medicare guidelines and adheres to EMTALA and HIPAA regulations.

Responsibilities

• People:
  • Promotes a positive work environment and contributes to a dynamic, team-focused unit.
  • Communicates openly and professionally with customers and co-workers.
• Service:
  • Obtains and records accurate demographic and insurance information by interviewing patients, family members, and physicians.
  • Ensures correct insurance plan codes are used for billing.
  • Explains consent forms, obtains signatures, and addresses patient questions professionally.
  • Contributes to patient experience by proactively addressing patient issues and concerns.
  • Alerts management to unusual or difficult situations impacting service levels.
• Quality/Safety:
  • Ensures protected health information remains private and confidential per HIPAA guidelines.
  • Uses patient identifiers to properly match patients with correct medical records.
  • Meets departmental goals for registration error rates and productivity.
• Finance:
  • Verifies that ordered services meet medical necessity criteria.
  • Collects payments based on pre-determined information and performs insurance verification.
  • Offers payment options after minimum required payment is received.
  • Fulfills monthly cash collection goals and accurately posts patient payments.
  • Balances cash drawer daily and follows department cash-handling policies.
  • Organizes time effectively, minimizing incidental overtime and assisting team members.
• Growth/Innovation:
  • Displays initiative to improve job functions and adaptability during changing demands.
  • Offers suggestions to streamline processes for efficient patient flow.
  • Seeks opportunities to expand learning beyond baseline competencies.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED, homeschool equivalency, partial or full completion of post-secondary education).
• Two years of experience in a strong customer service environment.
• One year of registration experience in a hospital environment preferred.

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrates skills and competencies necessary for safe job performance through ongoing assessments.
• Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing English to ensure patient and employee safety.
• Effectively communicates with patients, physicians, family members, and co-workers in a customer-focused manner.
• Ability to multi-task and remain calm in stressful situations with patience and understanding.
• Knowledge of registration/access functions and insurance procedures.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer service and professional communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills with the ability to learn and navigate multiple software programs.
• Ability to handle detailed work accurately and rapidly.

Work Attire

• Uniform: Yes
• Business professional: Yes
• Other (department-approved): Yes

On-Call and Travel

Employees may be required to be on-call during emergencies (e.g., disasters, severe weather). No regular travel is required within or outside the Houston Metropolitan area.